FutuRIBA roadshow day 2: Honesty, disengagement and future growth

Weston Williamson Architects, London – Wednesday December 7th

The latest stage of our FutuRIBA tour took me to the heart of London and Weston Williamson Architects, where I was able to meet a range of practices and architects – to try and get to the heart of some of their most pressing concerns.

It was an incredibly honest and open conversation, exactly the kind of thing we need. Here are a few of the comments and ideas that came out of the session.

On the RIBA…

“I feel that the best thing that the RIBA could do is, as Ben said, listen to the next generation. But there are many barriers.’

“Using the RIBA as a platform for debate and conduit for research is a welcome step forward.’

“Students and young architects are not apathetic. They’re just apathetic about the RIBA.’

On the Future…

“There’s so much energy in the membership, but this is rarely channeled through the RIBA. Architects are naturally generous in terms of knowledge sharing, but we need to find a way to harness this.’

“It’s not just about the lecture or debate. It’s about the conversations and connections that happen afterwards. And you need to create that comfortable and relaxed atmosphere to draw some people out.’

“The industry [should] reach out to those of less privileged or connected backgrounds to support inclusive growth of the industry. Especially those who haven’t even considered it an option.’

So what do you think? Do you feel disconnected from the RIBA and think there’s a better way we could be engaging architects? How do you see us representing you, your practice or your profession more effectively?

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About FutuRIBA.co.uk

What’s the future of architecture in the UK? What needs to change to improve the health of the profession and those within it?
Ben Derbyshire was elected as president of the RIBA on a platform for change.
FutuRIBA is his where this conversation can begin.